Bolivia - Social development

Social security coverage, through private insurance, is compulsory for
all workers, and voluntary coverage is available to the self-employed.
Those covered by the program receive medical, hospital, dental, and
pharmaceutical care for themselves and their families. Old age pensions
begin at age 65. A worker's family is eligible for
survivors' benefits of 70–80% of the insured
person's pension. Maternity benefits cover female workers and
workers' wives. Family allowances include cash payments for
birth, nursing, and burial and monthly subsidies for each unmarried
child. Employers contribute 2% of payroll for workers'
compensation and are also required to grant two months' severance
pay to dismissed employees.

Although guaranteed equal protection under the Constitution, women by
and large do not enjoy the same social status as men due to limited
political power and social traditions. In most cases, women earn less
than men for doing similar work. Spousal abuse and domestic violence are
widespread in Bolivia. The government is providing legal services for
women and has created a special family protection unit within the police
force.

Although the constitution prohibits sexual discrimination, women are
prohibited from working at night and are limited to a shorter work
schedule then men. These laws, however, are rarely enforced. A law
providing federal protection against sexual harassment was signed in
1999, and the adoption of a new criminal code provided additional
protection by classifying sexual harassment as a civil crime.

The government launched a national network to prevent and treat child
abuse. Government surveys show that nearly one in three children are
physically or psychologically abused. Corporal punishment is used widely
both at home and in schools. The government is collaborating actively
with nongovernmental agencies and the UN to address the issues facing
children in need.

Human rights are generally respected by the government, but prolonged
detention by police still occurred and the judicial system was plagued
by corruption and inefficiency. The prison system is harsh and
life-threatening.

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